Loch Ailort

Loch Ailort is a sea inlet in the Scottish Highlands that extends roughly 8 kilometers inland with the Ardnish Peninsula to the north and the Moidart Peninsula to the south. The water reaches depths of 43 meters in places, creating distinct zones between shallow and deep sections.

During World War II, Inverailort House near the loch became a military training facility and later served as HMS Lochailort for Royal Navy cadet training. This site played an important role in British military preparation during the conflict.

The waters and shores here have served as film locations, bringing Scottish coastal landscapes to audiences worldwide. This cinematic presence has shaped how many people imagine the Highland coast.

You can reach this inlet via Lochailort railway station on the West Highland Line between Fort William and Mallaig. The Road to the Isles also offers parking and viewpoints along the coast for those traveling by car.

The inlet contains several islands, including Eilean nan Gobhar with remains of ancient vitrified forts from prehistoric times. These archaeological sites reveal early human settlement in the region thousands of years ago.